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Farmers affected by Greenways are not treated properly, says UFU

The Ulster Farmers’ Union has expressed concern over the process followed by local councils when negotiating the acquisition of land for the development of greenway projects across Northern Ireland.

UFU legislation chairman, James O’Brien says, “Farmers are not anti-greenways. We recognise the environmental benefits they can bring, such as helping to prevent soil erosion. We also understand the role they can play in developing tourism, and the economic benefits of increased visitors can make to rural areas. However, we are keen to ensure that all farmers affected by such projects are involved at an early stage and treated fairly throughout all stages of the planning, development and construction phases. With local authorities failing to engage effectively and collaborate with farmers, the UFU believes that the success of Greenway projects is limited.”

The UFU says landowners impacted by proposed greenways should have their rights safeguarded, and is urging local authorities to ensure that landowners are consulted in advance of route selection and the publication of a preferred route corridor.

Mr O’Brien continues, “Voluntary agreements should be made with landowners and no land can pass to the ownership of local authorities without the consent of the original landowner. When selecting a desired route, local authorities should consider protecting and limiting any potential impact to any farm business. They can do this by ensuring any available public land is utilised before looking to acquire land that is privately owned. Any loss of income resulting from exclusion in farm schemes should be fully compensated. Local authorities should consider arranging a series of public meetings as the project progresses, in order to allow landowner queries and concerns to be addressed.”

The UFU has suggested the appointment of a dedicated project liaison officer on each project to help ensure landowner queries and concerns are addressed correctly, and restore landowner confidence in such projects.

Mr O’Brien adds, “Our message to local authorities is clear - not engaging meaningfully with farmers and landowners at an early stage will ultimately lead to the demise of greenway projects.”

In today’s world of regulation and inspections it is very reassuring to know that as a member , the support and knowledge of the Ulster Farmers Union is only a phone call away .The expertise and depth of knowledge that the Policy Officers and Technical Officers have right across all aspects of our industry is second to none. When a situation arose on our farm involving the Environment Agency, the support and advice we received from the Union proved invaluable. We suddenly found ourselves in a situation completely outside our previous experience and the fact that the Union was there for us at every stage made a huge difference.

Ruth Irvine

Having a UFU membership is a very prudent investment. Members have access to a highly motivated team who are fighting for the best results that can be obtained to help our farming business.

Sam Chesney

Having attended the Presidents Area Meeting in Omagh, and listened to the presentations and debate over questions posed, I would like to put on record my personal thanks and appreciation to the President Ian Marshall and the UFU staff for the work on behalf of the membership. May I also congratulate Ian on his very professional presentation style, it gives great confidence to be able to listen to someone who gives the impression they are in charge and have a firm hold of the situation, no matter how thorny.